Robert E. Kellington

For gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam: on this date, Sergeant Kellington was serving as a fire team leader with his unit on a reconnaissance in force operation seven miles north of Bien Hoa. As the friendly force proceeded through the treacherous region, it was suddenly subjected to intense automatic weapons, small arms, and rocket-propelled grenade fusillade from an undetermined size insurgent unit. Acting with tactical deliberation, Sergeant Kellington immediately deployed his men into strategic positions and directed their devastating suppressive fire on the aggressor emplacements. Observing several wounded comrades lying in an exposed area, Sergeant Kellington unhesitatingly crawled through the hostile fire to the aid of his fallen companions. Although painfully wounded by the insurgent fusillade, he carried the casualties to the medical evacuation zone. When one of the wounded soldiers collapsed from exhaustion, Sergeant Kellington applied emergency artificial respiration and succeeded in reviving the seriously wounded man. Once assured of the safety of all the casualties, he assisted in providing security for the rapid extraction of the wounded personnel to the medical facilities. His courageous initiative and selfless concern for the welfare of his men significantly contributed to the successful outcome of the encounter and were instrumental in saving friendly lives. Sergeant Kellington’s unquestionable valor while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an insurgent force is in keeping with the finest traditions of the miltiary service and reflects great credit upon himself, the 1st Infantry Division, and the United States Army.
By direction of the President, dated July 1, 1966.